CubaPLUS Magazine

Cuban academic and researcher José Luís Perelló today published an article reflecting on the current trend of luxury hotel investments in Latin America and the Caribbean. This trend is detailed in a special feature published by the Italian media outlet Trade Trade Caribbean (TTC), focusing on developments leading up to 2026.

In his reflections, Perelló notes that during the first four months of this year, several major luxury projects have emerged, including branded residences, innovative financial models, and significant investment ventures featuring high-end resorts. This marks a renewal of the all-inclusive model in destinations such as Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia, which are experiencing robust tourism growth.

The strength of tourism and hotel development in these destinations this year has been accompanied by the promotion of tourism brands through strategic announcements related to real estate investment. There is a noticeable sophistication in hotel offerings and a strengthening of tourism infrastructure, characterized by significant international capital involvement and public-private partnerships.

The announced projects and presented strategies confirm that the region is progressing towards a growth model centered on high-end resorts, branded residences, an upgraded all-inclusive experience, and mobility solutions that enhance the competitiveness of these destinations, he emphasized.

The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Tourism reported the conclusion of negotiations worth over $13.37 billion. These financial operations, stemming from more than 1,500 business meetings in recent months, will ensure nearly 10,000 new hotel rooms over the next three years, positioning the country as one of the most active destinations for investment announcements.

One of the flagship projects announced is the development of two all-inclusive luxury hotels under the JW Marriott and Autograph Collection brands in Miches, as part of the Master Plan for that destination.

Mexico has also demonstrated why it remains one of the most dynamic markets in the region. The Mexican Caribbean continues to attract large-scale hotel investments. In addition to Wyndham's announcement regarding the potential opening of up to 25 new hotels in Mexico in the medium term, the Governor of Quintana Roo revealed plans for the construction of the sixth Finest Hotel by Grupo Excellence. This new endeavor involves an investment exceeding $250 million and adds to the five hotels already operated by the group in the state, reinforcing Quintana Roo's position as a major hub for tourism capital in Latin America.

Meanwhile, Colombia maintains a portfolio of hotel projects under development. It is positioned as a medium- to long-term tourist investment destination. A notable example is the upcoming arrival of Holiday Inn in the city of Montería, marking a significant achievement for the capital of Córdoba by incorporating a globally recognized brand backed by IHG Hotels Resorts. The project includes a 12-story hotel with 113 rooms, commercial areas, coworking spaces, meeting rooms, a gym, and a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views, strategically located in the neighborhood.

Lastly, it is important to highlight that the all-inclusive model, traditionally associated with the Caribbean, has transformed into a central focus of hotel investments in recent times. In this regard, Royalton Hotels Resorts shared its vision for the evolution of this concept towards more contemporary and flexible offerings, supported by multi-million-dollar investment programs in renovations and new developments across Mexico and the Caribbean.

The company emphasized that the future of the segment lies in the continuous updating of design, gastronomy, and guest experience. In other words, the all-inclusive model is envisioned as a sophisticated product that can adapt to various traveler profiles, concluded Perelló.  

(Taken from Prensa Latina)